Ok, I've looked all over the net and can't find anything satifactory on PFD's that can be worn while open water swimming for use in emergencies only. What I have in mind is something low drag that can be automatically inflated and worn while swimmimng distance in open water. Just in case of cramps, etc. Please help!
Thanks
Orangedog
Former Member
Yeah, I thought about just towing a blow-up doll behind me! Seriously though, I need something for open water training that would only be deployed in an absolute emergency. I have no question about my abilities, but stuff does happen (I can't be the only one who has ever worried about a cramp and 1/4 mile from shore!), and having a back-up would be great. Even swimming with a buddy doesn't really do any good if someone gets into trouble too far from shore.
i think it is important to know how to deal with cramps while in the water.
you're right about the buddy system not being failsafe...and using another person to lean on might jeapordize the safety of both.
i don't think that anyone has drowned because of cramping (unless said cramping occurs in the heart)...but rather the panic that follows.
i am confident that i could swim a good distance, even if both legs seized up, though it would be neither fast nor graceful. the key for me is to relax and try to massage the affected area as best i can.
ps i remember seeing a device that one could inflate much the same way an airline life vest does (with a small cylinder of compressed gas that is released by pulling a string) but i don't think i would want to swim with it. i would rather tow one of those safety sausages behind me.
My brother Tom used to train by pulling a navy whaler behind him. He was tethered to the boat I think it would also get you in great shape.
Chous is right learn to handle cramps and we know it is better to be on your back but the best rule of thumb is stay close to shore during traing and be fit for the swim. If it is a leg cramp no problem. I once swam a ten mile race with leg, arm and lat cramps it was not nice but I tried to relax and finished the race.
